Common Museum Pests (7 of 10)

Other insects and animals

Which insects cause problems?

The remaining insects that are considered pests to museums are:

Why are these insects a problem?

The nymph and adult silverfish and booklice scratch away at the surface of damp paper, books and textiles, whereas woodlice attack rotting wood and vegetation.

Because of their preference for damp material, the existence of these insects is often an indicator that there is a problem with the environment – for example, a water leak or high humidity. Conversely, if you have a damp environment, you are more likely to have a problem with these types of insect, and you will need to increase your pest monitoring.